Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 16, 2025

Early Viral Entry Assays for the Identification and Evaluation of Antiviral Compounds
Published on: October 29, 2015
Crossroads in virology: current challenges and future perspectives in the age of emerging viruses
1Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3RE, UK.
Abstract:
Ongoing global health challenges posed by emerging and re-emerging viruses have highlighted the critical importance of understanding virus-host interactions in countering these threats. Environmental changes, urbanisation and ecological disruption, coupled with the adaptable nature of viruses, facilitates the emergence and spread of new viruses. This Editorial emphasises the urgency of a concerted effort in understanding virus-host interactions to inform the development of therapeutics and vaccines, and help predict disease outcomes. Furthermore, efforts to monitor viral evolution, identify mutations of concern, and develop 'universal' vaccines and broad-spectrum antiviral drugs are needed to counter viral evolution and potentially prevent future viral emergences. Widespread public mistrust surrounding viruses and vaccines also calls for improvement in science communication. A 'One Health' approach that advocates the development of robust global health systems, interdisciplinary collaborations and equity in health access is therefore imperative for transforming the virology landscape.
Related Concept Videos
Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics
Viral Mutations
Viral Recombination
Size and Structure of Viral Genomes
Viruses of Archaea
Viruses with RNA Genomes

